The Beginning Shocks the Emperor Wu: Did You Write This Poem?.

Summary

Summary of the text: The passage explores political and economic tensions in Southern Qi, focusing on a conflict between merchants and the court. Zhou Ji Ning, a merchant alliance leader, fails to secure maritime trade rights when the Emperor refuses his request. The Empress Dowager plans to strategically divide the Wanzhou Alliance by exploiting merchants' profit-driven nature, taking advantage of Xia Bo Ran's absence. The merchants' frustration grows as they realize Zhou Ji Ning cannot effectively lead or protect their interests, highlighting the complex power dynamics between political authorities and commercial associations.

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